Classic/Antique Car Repair: valve adjustments

Question
Hi i own a 1953 Packard clipper 5.4 straight 8 327,im have a problem finding info how to adjust the tappets as i just re lapped the valves in can you help please kev

Answer
If in fact you have a 327 CID engine the valve lifters are hydraulic and non adjustable. Having said that there is an initial setting that requires that you take out all of the valve springs and valves. Keep them in order. Then you remove the plungers from the hydraulic lifters keeping them in order. Now here is the tricky part. You need a special Packard tool, a gauge pin that replace the plunger. Next drop the valve back in and with that cylinder on top dead center measure the distance from the gauge pin to the valve tip. The clearance needs to be between .030 and .070 inches. If not within those specification then you either remove metal from the tip of the valve or grind the valve seat deeper into the block. If you have just lapped the valves in and did not put the valves in a valve grinding machine or use a stone on the seats you probably have not disrupted the factory setting.